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Student Employment 101

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Working while going to school has multiple benefits. You will earn extra money, learn new on-the-job skills (such as time management), build up contacts and references, and increase your marketability for summer and post-Cornell jobs. You’ll also meet new friends along the way.

The toughest part about finding a job is starting your job search. Follow the FIVE STEPS below and get started today.

Step 1 – Determine Your Eligibility

To be eligible for student employment, you must be registered full-time in a Cornell degree program, enrolled in classes, be in good standing at Cornell without any holds on your registration (such as bursar, dean’s, judicial or Gannett clinic.) You will need a Cornell NetID to access job listings. All students who meet Cornell's employment eligibility requirements may work at Cornell, regardless of their financial aid status.

You also must be able to prove your identity and your eligibility to work in the United States. Refer to the I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification for information and instructions. All student employees, including foreign nationals, must have an official social security number issued from the Social Security Administration.

If you are not registered at Cornell, have graduated or withdrawn, or are on a university or medical leave of absence, you will not be eligible for employment as a student. Your student job will be terminated.

Step 2 – Know what’s expected.

Review the student employment guidelines and policies to assure you understand what is expected of Cornell students who work on-campus or off-campus for prospective employers.

Step 3 – Start the job search!

Cornell does not place students in jobs; rather, students conduct their own job search! It’s up to you to identify opportunities that best fit your interests, skills, and class schedules. Note that you must have a valid Cornell NetID to access job postings.

For part time job opportunities and internships available at Cornell and in the Ithaca/Tompkins County area, start your search on our site. For full time jobs, as well as jobs and/or internships outside of the Ithaca/Tompkins County area, start your search through the Cornell Career Services site.

Step 4 – Practice interviewing

While the part-time job you may be applying to may not be necessarily in line with your ultimate career goal, still prepare carefully for your interviews. It could just help you land the job, while providing you some good experience that can be beneficial post-graduation. Review interviewing tips.

Step 5 – Sign up for direct deposit

As soon as you're hired, be sure to sign up for Cornell's Direct Deposit service. Direct Deposit assures that your paycheck goes into a bank account of your choice, allowing you ready access to your money without worry of misplacing a paycheck.